CONCORD, NH – Recently, New Hampshire Housing’s Greener Homes Program completed its pilot project, an energy retrofit that will lower the operating costs for two Bicentennial Square properties owned by Families in Transition (FIT), a Concord- and Manchester-based homelessness nonprofit.

Families in Transition has housed homeless individuals and families in their two Bicentennial Square properties in downtown Concord since 2004. Residents, over half of whom are children, receive housing and comprehensive social services while in the program, a proven formula to eradicate homelessness in the Concord community.

Work began on the extensive retrofitting project—including the installation of high-efficiency gas boilers and 12 solar water panels atop one of the facilities—in June 2010. After facing rising utility costs over the last several years, Families in Transition will now be able to save on its heating expenses and utilize that savings towards its housing and programming for the homeless.

“Funding from New Hampshire Housing made this project possible,” said Maureen Beauregard, President of Families in Transition. “After years of steep rising energy costs, we are grateful to New Hampshire Housing for the ability to continue to offer affordable housing to Concord’s most needy.”

“We were pleased to partner with Families in Transition on our first Greener Homes project,” stated Dean Christon, Executive Director of New Hampshire Housing. “From both an improved environmental and operating standpoint, FIT will be able to continue offering quality affordable housing at the Bicentennial Square for those families in need. As the pilot for this program, this project also generates important experience to support our work with other affordable housing providers.”

Families in Transition is a nonprofit organization that provides safe, affordable housing and comprehensive social services to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, enabling them to gain self-sufficiency and respect. FIT also owns and operates two thrift stores in Manchester and Concord, NH which serve as an economic engine to help pay for services they provide. For more information about FIT, its programs and stores, and MVP visit www.fitnh.org or call 603-641-9441.